Better Search Skills - Better Healthcare for India

We are happy to share that for the third year (with some gaps in between), QMed has had the privilege of partnering with FFE to empower their scholars with essential research skills. Through this collaboration, FFE sponsored access to QMedCourses, enabling students to build strong foundations in literature searching, referencing, and evidence-based learning—skills that are rarely taught formally, yet are critical for academic and professional success.

This year, we aimed for deeper engagement and stronger outcomes.

Orientation webinar

We began with an orientation webinar to set clear expectations and demonstrate how these skills would benefit students throughout their careers. We were delighted to have Dr Alhad M, a recent medical graduate and member of our soon-to-be constituted Advisory Panel, speak to the scholars about the importance of research. His session helped students see research not as something distant or intimidating, but as something they could actively engage with—even during their undergraduate years.

Participation was voluntary—and encouragingly, 98 FFE Scholars signed up.

Course introduction webinar

A second webinar introduced key concepts from our first course, including understanding information resources, the basics of evidence-based practice, correct searching techniques, and proper referencing. Students were then given a month to complete the course, with flexibility to accommodate their academic schedules and examinations.

The response has been heartening.

Feedbacks received

One student shared:
“Using PubMed was always a mystery to me, and this program helped me understand it. I just wish I had learned this in my first year.”

Another reflected:
“This course made me realize that I was searching everything in the wrong direction. It gave me the right pathway, starting from the basics.”

Such feedback reinforces why this initiative matters. These are bright, motivated students who simply need structured guidance to unlock their full academic potential.

Going ahead...

Looking ahead, we plan to conduct more interactive webinars to ensure that all participating scholars complete the courses and gain maximum benefit. Our goal is not just course completion—but transformation. We want these future professionals to stay updated with ease, read scientific literature confidently, think critically, and eventually contribute meaningfully to their fields.

Know more

We invite you to read our full blog post, including more student feedback, here:

www.qmed.ngo/empowering-ffe-scholars

Thank you for your continued support in helping us strengthen the academic foundations of deserving students.

Vasumathi Sriganesh